Basharaat-E-Ahmadiyya

Year-end International Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam, (Lahore) USA December 2006 P.O. Box 3370, Dublin, Ohio 43016 USA Phone: (614) 873-1030 • Fax: (614) 873-1022 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.muslim.org

Distribution of The Holy Quran in IN THIS ISSUE Id ul Fitr Khutba ...... 18 Russia ...... 24 Italian Translation of The Holy Community Activities ...... 25 Editorial ...... 2 Quran ...... 21 Press Releases ...... 26 Visit To Central Asia For The German Translation of The Holy September 2006 Electronic Version of Distibution Of The Holy Quran ...... 3 Quran ...... 22 Basharaat-E-Ahmadiyya December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

The Stichting Jamaat in Holland. Editorial By the Grace of Almighty Allah the repairs to the dome It is with feelings of profound of the Berlin Mosque have been humility and thankfulness completed. to Almighty Allah for all the achievements and successes He has Finally, I would like to end with blessed this jamaat with this year a quote from Mrs. Samina Malik’s that we are publishing this annual article which rings so true in print version of the Basharaat-e- accounting for the success of the Ahmadiyya. efforts of this jamaat. The greatest achievements of this year are undoubtedly the “I would like to conclude with publication of the Italian and the observation that we stand on German Holy Quran translations the shoulders of giants. It is the Inspiration for the and Mrs. Samina Malik’s literature produced by Maulana Translation and historic tour of Central Asia Muhammad Ali inspired by the Publication Project introducing Maulana Muhammad Mujaddid of this age Hazrat Ali’s Russian translation of the Mirza Ghulam Ahmad that gains by the USA Jamaat Holy Quran into the former the acceptance in the hearts of By Mrs. Samina Malik Soviet Republics of Tajikistan, people. Our efforts are only a Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan miniscule part of any success in The person responsible for inspiring and Azerbaijan. this endeavour. Humanity and our and initiating the Translation and Among other notable events was jamaat owes an unestimable debt to Publication Projects was our beloved the free distribution of additional these great men of God. late Hazrat Ameer Dr. Saeed Ahmad nineteen thousand Russian Holy I would like to end with an Sahib. Without his prayers and most Qurans in Russia by Mrs. Samina earnest prayer that may Almighty inspiring leadership it would have been Malik in April of this year, which Allah accept the efforts of this very difficult to progress as far as we have. brings the number of Holy Qurans small jamaat and bring about the He always supported and helped those distributed free to date in Russia to fulfillment of His promise. For We who were engaged in this work, and never approximately fifty thousand. are weak and have many faults, discouraged those who sacrificed in the The enthusiastic reception of the and He is the All Mighty, the All way of Allah. Arabic Religion of Islam and other Merciful and the All Forgiving. At a very critical time, after the events of Arabic translations of Maulana ‘O Allah help those who help the 1974, Hazrat Ameer Dr. Saeed Ahmad’s Muhammad Ali’s books among Religion of Muhammad and make tours of the Ahmadiyya Jamaats abroad the religious scholars in Al-Azhar us of them…’” were key in helping the Ahmadiyya and Central Asia illustrates the Movement in surviving this shock. importance and utility of translating We believe as taught by Hazrat Ten years have passed since his demise, our literature into Arabic. Mirza Ghulam , the Founder of our but we are still moved by his beloved and Our contacts with Muslims movement, that the Holy Prophet inspiring memory. As a child, at the age of of Albania and Bosnia and the Muhammad is the last and final six years, he took the bait on Hazrat Mirza community of French Speaking prophet , and that no prophet either Sahib’s hand, and his life, til the age of Muslims in Paris, France continue. old or new will appear after him, ninety-six years when he died, was a living Typesetting of the Turkish Holy and that any person professing the testimony of “holding Religion above the Quran and the English translation kalima shahada should be regarded as world.” of Mujadid-e-azam are proceeding a muslim. We believe, as did Hazrat Ten years have passed since his demise, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, that Islam but we are still moved by his inspiring and on schedule and , inshallah, these as taught in the Holy Quran and as beloved memory. books will be printed in 2007. exemplified in the practice and sayings I thank almighty Allah that I was able to Another milestone was reached of the Holy Prophet Muhammad is spend so much time with this great man in the publication of our Dutch peaceful, inspiring, rational, tolerant of Allah. literature with the publication of and non-sectarian. May Almighty Allah grant him an the Dutch Religion of Islam by the elevated place in paradise.

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VISIT TO CENTRAL ASIA FOR THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE RUSSIAN HOLY QURAN by Samina Malik For several years, I had been thinking would, therefore, face great difficulty in be introduced into Azerbaijan and of taking our Russian translation of distributing the Holy Quran. the other Central Asian republics as the Holy Quran into the Central Asian About five months ago I received soon as possible for the benefit of the Republics, but had been dissuaded an e-mail from brother Tahir Pasha, a Muslims in this region, and he urged from doing so people saying I would journalist in Baku, Azerbaijan, saying me to visit Azerbaijan and the other face much problems. I was told that that he had read Maulana Muhammad Central Asian Repubilics. the authoritarian regimes in the region Ali’s Russian translation of the Holy This strengthened my resolve, and were hostile to any outsiders connected Quran and had been greatly impressed in September, 2006, I finalized plans with Islamic movements due to by the quality of the translation and to visit Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, the unrest being caused by Islamic the enlightened commentary. He Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Azerbaijan. militants in those countries, and I strongly felt that this translation should

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Kazakhstan

I left Columbus, Ohio on October to Kazakhstan. I explained to him that 15th 2006 for Almatey, the capital the purpose of my visit to Central Asia of Kazakhstan. I flew directly from was to spread the Russian translation New York to Istanbul, and after a five of the Holy Quran. hour wait in Istanbul, I continued I made it clear to him that we were my flight to Kazakhstan and landed Lahori Ahamadis and not Quadianis. I early morning at Almaty airport emphasized the fact we firmly believed on October 17th. I was very tired in the finality of the Prophet hood of and exhausted after this long trip, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, and but the immigration and customs that no other prophet, neither old nor were extremely helpful and quickly new, could come after him. He gave a Vice Mufti Of Kazakhstan processed my papers. Mr. Tahir Pasha brief history of Islam in Kazakhstan. It and his wife Ghumur, who had arrived was very heartening to know about the a few days earlier from Azerbaijan, progress that had been made in Islamic came to receive me at the airport. education in this country since the fall We had a very cordial and happy first of communism. May Almighty Allah meeting and they took me to the hotel. have Mercy on them and bring them After I had a couple of hours rest, even closer to Islam. we went to meet the High Mufti of The Mufti presented me with a book Kazakhstan, Haji Derbsali Abusattar. of their activities. I further informed However, we were unable to see him, him that we would send them several as he was totally preoccupied with thousand Russian Holy Quran by early other meetings that whole day. We next year. Vice Mufti of Kazakhstan accepting the did, however, meet with the Vice-Mufti The Mufti was very pleased, and he Russian Holy Quran from Mrs. Samina Malik and the Secretary. The Vice-Mufti thanked me for the offer. He wished us who had studied in Karachi, Pakistan success in our mission to translate and for four years, was very interested in distribute the Holy Quran and other our Russian translation of the Holy Islamic literature into the different Quran and the Arabic books including languages of the world. He also said the Religion of Islam. I spoke to him that he would pray for the success about the Ahmadiyya Movement of my trip to the other countries in and our beliefs as Lahori Ahamadis. Central Asia. I found the Mufti to be He was very happy to learn that we a very sincere and pleasant person, were firm believers in the finality of and I thank Almighty Allah for a prophethood. I presented him with the very productive and successful visit to Arabic Living thoughts of the Prophet Kazakhstan. Muhammad and Muhammad the Prophet. He very graciously made an appointment for us to meet the High Mufti the next day. The following day October 19th, we arrived at the High Mufti’s office. The time allotted for the meeting Basharaat-E-Ahmadiyya by his secretary was ten minutes, Editor: Dr. Noman Malik but as we talked, the Mufti became so interested in our dawa activities News, letters and views are welcome, and should be sent to: that the meeting lasted for forty five The Editor, Basharaat-e-Ahmadiyya P.O. Box 3370, Dublin, Ohio 43016 USA minutes. He wanted to know about Phone: (614) 873-1030 • Fax: (614) 873-1022 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.muslim.org our mission, and the reason for my trip

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Tajikistan

I left Kazakhstan for Dushanbe, Studies. They both greatly appreciated regarding the death and birth of Jesus, Tajikistan early on the morning of the fact that I had come to visit them. Prayer and basic Islam. They told October 20. The plane was a rickety They were very interested in obtaining me that most young people do not old soviet aircraft. As soon as I entered the Russian Holy Quran for the pray regularly, or fast in the month the plane, I was surprised to see people University. They also expressed their of Ramadan. This was the result of scrambling from one seat to another. need for other books on Islam and decades of suppression of religion The reason soon became apparent: Prayer. The booklets Islam the Religion under communism. During this not all seats had seat belts and the of Humanity and the Prophet of Islam period Islamic practices such as prayer passengers were searching for seats with as well as the Living thoughts of the and fasting were prohibited with tragic seatbelts. The backs of the seats in the Prophet Muhammad have already been consequences for faith and religion. front section of the plane were folded translated into Russian and printed. While I was talking to the rest of down and the suit cases were piled Inshallah, The Russian Religion of the family, Dr. Sitora’s father who there. As soon as the plane began to Islam will be ready for printing next is a medical doctor and Professor of ascend after take-off, the suitcases came year, and the USA Jamaat is making Physiology in the medical school, was tumbling down the ailse! arrangement to translate the Muslim quietly reading our Russian translation The airport staff at Dushanbe Prayer Book and other books by of the Holy Quran. After reading airport were very friendly and helpful. Maulana Muhammad Ali into Russian the Quran for a couple of hours he People greeted me as if they had as soon as possible for Central Asia came to me and said “This Quran known me for a long time and wanted and Russia. was published in 1998. Why are you to help me in every way. My younger I told the Rector and Director that bringing it so late?” This is not the only son Fazeel had made arrangements we would gift them the Russian Holy time I would hear this complaint. for an attorney friend of his, Nazirbek, Quran for free distribution, but that The Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement to receive me at the airport and take custom clearance would be their can render a great service to our me to the hotel. Nazirbek had been responsibility. They assured me that fellow muslims in Central Asia by a fellow student with Fazeel in the clearing the books through customs providing them with the enlightened same Masters program in Law at the would not pose any problem for them. literature produced and inspired by Case Western Reserve University in Eid fell on October 25th, and the Mujaddid of this age. The people Cleveland, Ohio. Nazirbek and his family very kindly I talked to were highly educated and The next day, accompanied by invited me to celebrate Eid with them. very interested in religion. They were Nazirbek and his wife Dr. Sitora They treated me like a family member, doctors, lawyers and government (who is a practicing gynecologist) and I was very impressed by their officials. Many of the well educated I went to meet the Rector, Hoji hospitality. During the time I spent people here know English. Russian, of Abdujalol Alizod, and the Director, with them, we had lengthy discussions course, is their second language. Their Mr. Saidmukaram Abdukadirov, of about the Ahmadiyya Movement native tongue is Darri Farsi. We shall, the Tajikistan University of Islamic and Islam. They had many questions inshallah, be supplying them with literature in both English and Russian. I would like to express my profound gratitude and thanks to Nazirbek and his wife Sitora for their hospitality,help and support during my stay in Tajikistan and their assistance in arranging the meetings with the Rector and Director of the Islamic University of Tajikistan. Inshallah, I hope and pray to continue this friendship with them and have a very productive Rector Dr. Hoji Abdujalol Ali Zad and the From Left to Right: Mrs Samina Malik, Rector relationship in bringing the message of Director Dr. Mukaram Abdukadirov of the Hoji Abdujalol, Director Dr. Saidmakuram Kadirov an enlightened Islam to Tajikistan. University of Islamic Studies Dushanbe, Tajikistan and Mr. Nazir Bek

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Mrs. Samina Malik with Dr. Sitora in front of Mrs. Samina Malik and Dr. Sitora on Eid Day Dr. Sitora’s parents with the Russian Holy Quran the main mosque of Tajikistan in Dusanbe next to the Islamic University

Kyrgyzstan

On 25th of October I left for man. As soon as he spotted the Arabic Arabic. He asked me for a copy, and I Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Religion of Islam in my hand, he told him I could not give him one right As soon as I landed at the airport, I asked “Is this the same book, Deen-ul- now, as I had brought only a few copies arranged for an interpreter, His name Islam, by Maulana Muhammad Ali?” I to show during my tour, but I would was Alexander Goussev, and I found answered “yes” and was surprised that send him one as soon as I returned out that he also did translation work he knew about the book as we had not home. He was delighted to hear that and website management. We went distributed it in this part of the world. and also that we would be donating to the Mosque at the University. The So out of curiosity I asked him how Russian Holy Qurans to Kyrgyzstan. Mosque is very beautiful and is located he knew about the book. He replied After the meeting with the Assistant adjacent to the University. We met “ I have just returned a few months Mufti, we went to meet the vice- with the Imam of the Mosque who ago from Al-Azhar Egypt, where I had Ombudsman (Akyikatchy) of the informed us that the Mufti was out of been studying for the past ten years. I Kyrgyz Republic, Mr. Koshokov the country and would be returning on had seen this book with some of the Taalaibek. He was extremely interested October 27. We made an appointment Sheikhs there, and had tried to get a in our Russian Quran. He had already to meet with the mufti on the morning copy, but had been unable to do so.” received ten copies which I had given of the 27th, and I went and prayed in I was overjoyed to hear this. Then to brother Tahir Pasha to distribute the mosque. On Friday 27th we went he took the book and began to read in Kyrgyzstan. He thanked me for the for our meeting with the Mufti, but aloud in Arabic Dr. Tantawi’s foreword copies and said that he had already were told that he was still away, so we in which he pays tribute to Maulana distributed eight of them and had met with the assistant Mufti, Suiun Muhammad Ali. It was with great kept two for himself. He said that he Kuliev, instead. The assistant Mufti difficulty that I held back my tears had compared our translation with was a very pleasant energetic young as he read out the tribute in perfect another leading translation and found

Main Mosque of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Front of the main Mosque of Bishkek, Imam of the Bishkek Mosque in Kyrgyzstan Kyrgyzstan

[6] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA our translation much better. He was meet the Secretary of the Women’s Movement, Islam, status of women in particularly impressed by the footnotes association. We had a very cordial Islam and about myself. and introduction. Our meeting lasted meeting, and she invited me to come I agreed. So on Sunday she came almost an hour. We discussed the and give a lecture on The Status of to my Hotel with the cameraman to Ahamdiyya Movement and the claims Women in Islam on Saturday 28th videotape the interview. I spoke briefly of Hazrat Mirza Sahib. He told me that October at 10.a.m. about our movement, Hazrat Mirza some people had come to him and After the meeting, I went with her Sahib, and our beliefs. I emphasized told him that Ahmadis did not believe to the main mosque in the city for the points that our movement was in the Holy Prophet Muhammad. In the Jummah prayers. The Jummah named after the Holy Prophet’s second my reply I emphasized the fact that was attended by more then one name Ahmad, and that we believed not only did we believe in the Holy thousand people. There was no in the Holy Prophet Muhammad as Prophet Muhammad but that we room inside the mosque, so many also believed in the perfect finality of of the worshippers prayed outside. It his prophethood in that no prophet, was wonderful to see more then five neither old nor new, could come after hundred women in the mosque on him. I informed him that we were Friday. Even more so, as women are getting the claims of Hazrat Mirza discouraged from participating in the Sahib and his statements expressing his daily congregational prayers in the love for the Holy Prophet Muhammad mosque. Many women said to me that translated into Russian and would they had been told by the Mullahs distribute them all over Central Asia. that they would get twenty seven times Mr. Taalaibek said that he was very more reward(sawab) if they performed glad that I had come and explained their prayers at home. The unfortunate Vice Mufti Suiun Kuliev of Kyrgyzstan the differences between Qadiani and result has been that the ladies try their Lahori Ahmadis. He also asked for best to perform their prayers at home copies of the Certificates given by rather than in the mosque. Al-Azhar to our books, Dr. Tantawi’s On Saturday, I went to the office review of the Religion of Islam with of the Women’s organization to his tribute to Maulana Muhammad deliver my talk. There were almost Ali and the front cover of the Arabic fifty women present. They listened Religion of Islam. He also wanted attentively to me and greatly a copy of the photograph of Dr. appreciated my lecture. After the Tantawi with me. He told me that he lecture, they asked questions about would make use of this material when our Movement and our work in USA. discussing our Movement with people. Also, they wanted to know about He was very happy to learn that we our translation project for the Holy Vice ombudsman of the Kyrgyzstan, Mr. were going to send several thousand Quran, and how they could obtain Koshokov Taalaibek Russian Holy Qurans to Kyrgyzstan. copies of the Russian translation. He told me that there would be no They were overjoyed when I told bar to sending our Russian Quran to them that we would, Inshallah, send Kyrgyzstan, and that he would arrange them the Russian Holy Quran for free for their clearance. In fact, he even distribution by March of next year. volunteered to assist us in sending our They told me that had they known Holy Quran to Uzbekistan as he had earlier about my lecture, they would contacts in that country. have been able to gather a much larger I was very impressed by his sincerity audience. and enthusiasm and thanked him for At the lecture, I met sister Nazeera, all his help. who was a producer in the Kyrgyzstan He also set up an appointment for Television. She asked me if she could me to meet with the Muslim Women interview me for a telvision program. Mrs Samina Malik presenting the Holy Association of Kyrgyzstan. So after She said that in the interview, Quran to vice Ombudsman of the Kyrgyzstan, Mr. my visit with Mr. Taalaibek I went to she wanted me to talk about our Koshokov Taalaibek

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Mrs. Samina Malik with the Secretary and a member of the Muslim Womens Association.

Youngest member of the audience at Mrs. Samina Malik with the Ladies of the Muslim Women Assoc. of Kyrgyzstan Samina Malik’s Lecture

the last and final prophet. I laid stress it so many times, I get tears in my eyes house is only $5000.00. If we repair on tolerance in Islam, and that we thinking that only if we would value the building it might cost us another regarded all prophets as messengers him similarly. $5000.00 Altogether it will cost us sent by God, and that all religions were During my stay in Bishkek Dr. $10,000.00 to have a functioning God inspired. I reiterated the points I Mohammad Ahmad, Noman and mosque.This is an opportune time had raised about the rights of women I had discussed the desirability of to purchase property in Central Asia. in islam in my lecture. establishing a presence in Kyrgyzstan. Land is still reasonably priced, but She was very glad to see the Russian Dr. Ahmad and Noman asked me to prices are rising fast. Translation of the Holy Quran and see if I could find a piece of suitable I have told them to send all the the Arabic Religion of Islam, and land in Kyrgyzstan. I requested a few documents to Mr. Fazeel Khan and took photographs of the Russian Holy people to look for a suitable plot. Soon he will take care of all the necessary Quran, the Arabic Religion of Islam, after the television interview, I went details for transfer of the property to the Certificate of Alazhar for the with Brother Ruslan and Sacha to the Jamaat. Religion of Islam, the foreword of the see a place which was approximately Inshallah, if we can find twenty Grand Imam Sheikh Tantawi, and the 13 kilometers from the city. It was donors willing to pay five hundred photograph of Maulana Muhammad a nice large piece of land with an dollars each we can have a center in Ali. Nazeera also expressed her wish to old, building on it with a beautiful Kyrgyzstan. The burden of purchasing do a one hour program about the life mountain view. But most importantly the center will, in that case be shared and works of Maulana Muhammad it was on a major paved road and by all. Even if we cannot staff it Ali. I was very happy and moved to therefore easily accessible. There are immediately, at least, the people see their love and respect for Maulana almost twenty thousand Muslims around the center will have a mosque Muhammad Ali because of his residing around this property. They to pray in, and that in itself would be a commentary and Translation of the presently do not have a place to great service to Islam and the Muslims Holy Quran. May Almighty Allah Bless pray, and are trying to put up a mud there, and Allah Taala Rewards those and Reward Maulana Muhammad Ali. building for temporary use. who help in building His house. When they praise the Quran and kiss The total cost for the land and On Monday, October 30, I went

[8] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA to meet the Rector of the University far. He said, that as a Rector, he had him that the Vice Ombudsman of Islamic Studies in Kyrgizhstan. I a great responsibility for accepting had approved the translation after spent almost thirty minutes with him Qurans from organizations, and could reviewing it. Upon this he replied that and he asked many questions about not do so without examining them if a person of the Vice Ombudsman’s our Holy Quran. He said that it had first. He cited his experience with rank and stature had approved it, been translated by a non-muslim and a Russian translation by a Muslim then he would not have any objection he wanted to check it to make sure Russian Lady which he had approved in accepting the translation either. that the translation was correct. I told and distributed among the students I presented him with a copy of the him that this Quran had been out without examining it first. Later on, he Quran, for which he was very thankful, in Russia for the past nine years and said, they had discovered mistakes in and said that he would pray for me and had been thoroughly studied by many the translation and had to withdraw it. for the people who had contributed learned imams and scholars, and I could understand his apprehension, towards this Quran. no one had voiced any objections so and to reassure him, informed After meeting the Rector, I went to visit Sister Jamal, the president of the Muslim Women’s Organization of Kyrgyzstan. She is doing a great service for Islam in this region. She travels extensively in Central Asia and all parts of Kyrgyzstan. She showed me all the activities she is engaged in for the service of Islam, and presented me with an album of photographs of her work in Central Asia. I was very impressed by her dedication and commitment to the Islamic cause. She also works with women in prison. When I presented her with a copy of the Holy Quran, she was very happy to see the Quran with the extensive footnotes, Index and Introduction. She asked me why our organization had not thought about the Muslims of Central Asia for the last nine years. At that moment, I just wished that our Jamaat would have distributed some Holy Qurans to these people Mrs. Samina Malik discussing Women’s right in the Holy Quran with sister Nazira and Secretary of in Central Asia in the beginning. She the Womens Organization of Kyrgyzstan said that the correct and true teaching of Islam were very much needed in Central Asia. I told her that we would try our best to assist them and work with them in this endeavour. She also invited us to come and speak on Islam to the Muslims of Kyrgyzstan. May Almighty Allah help us to send the Russian Quran and other Russian books on Islam to these countries. After the meeting with sister Jamal, I Ladies of the Muslim Women Assoc. of Ladies of the Muslim Women Assoc. came back to the hotel, packed my bags Kyrgyzstan Listening to the Lecture of exchanging addresses with Sister Samina Malik and went to the airport to board the Mrs. Samina Malik flight for Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

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Sister Jamal, the President of the Muslim Sister Jamal the Presidentt of the Muslim Mrs. Samina Malik presenting the Russian Women’s Organization of Kyrgyzstan with Mrs. Women’s organization Holy Quran to Sister Jamal Samina Malik

Television Station of Bishkek Kyrgyzstan Sister Nazira conducting the TV interview of Mrs. Samina Malik presenting a Russian Holy Mrs. Samina Malik in the Hotel. Quran to Sister Nazira.

Building and land being purchased by the USA Front view of the old building being purchased Rector of the University of Islamic Studies in Jamaat for a Mosque in Bishkek Kyrgyzstan for the mosque in Beshkek Kyrgyzstan Bishkek Kyrgyzstan

Uzbekistan

I arrived in Uzbekistan on October 29. all subsequent copies of the quran design on its front cover. When I The next day, I went to see the were made. It is written on vellum and told Noman about it, he asked me to Al-Bhukhari Islamic University. It is a is so beautiful that one wants to keep go back and get photographs of the beautifully laid out university. In the on looking at it. In the Library there cover and the inside first pages of the library of the mosque adjacent to the were also hundreds of copies of the Quran. So the next day I went again University, I was thrilled to see the Holy Quran in different languages. I and photographed and videotaped Holy Quran which was one of the spotted one Holy Quran in Albanian the cover and the inside pages of the original Qurans that Hazrat Usman language, which had a cover which beginning of the translation. It was had sent out twenty three after the looked exactly like that of our Quran, very interesting to see so many Qurans death of the Holy Prophet from which with the same Arabic inscription in different languages. Inshallah, the

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librarian told me that they will get our Tantawi’s comments about Maulana After meeting with the Vice Mufti, I translation displayed also. l also went Muhammad Ali, and remarked went to meet the Rector of the Islamic to a few madrassas and saw how they that Sheikh Tantawi is a very good University of Uzbekistan, Professor Dr. learnt to recite the Holy Quran. man, and that he has a lot of respect Shukhrat Yovkochev. The University The next morning I met with the for him. I informed him that we were is large and beautiful. As there was Vice Mufti Shiekh Abdurazzaq getting the Religion of Islam translated tight security it was extremely difficult Manzuur, who is in charge of the into Russian, to which he replied that to get through the front entrance. My Foreign Missions, and is lecturer in it would be very useful for the students interpreter, who also was the driver, the Islamic University of Uzbekistan. in the university. I told him that our went twice to get permission from He is also the first person to translate Movement would like to send several the guards to enter the University the Holy Quran into the Uzbek thousand copies of the Quran free for to meet with the Rector, but was language from the original Arabic. the people of Uzbekistan., He said rebuffed each time. The third time, I He was very happy to meet me. He that he would be very happy to receive went to the guards and showed them said that he knew about Maulana the free copies of the Quran for the a photograph of my meeting with Muhammad Ali and had heard about Muslims of Uzbekistan. He asked his the vice mufti Sheikh Abdurazzaq the Russian Holy Quran, but had assistant to give me the address of the Manzuur on my digital camera. This not actually seen one so far. He was Mufti’s office, where the Quran should had the desired effect, and the Security very pleased to receive a copy and be shipped. I gave him one Quran as guard called another guard and asked to see the commentary of the Holy a gift and he also took the Religion of him to take me to the Foreign Ministry Quran. He asked me if we had this Islam and was putting it away on his Department. I went in, and two Quran tafseer in Arabic. I told him shelf. I told him that I needed this assistant directors took me in their that we are working on it. When I book, as it was the only copy left with office and began a detailed interview. showed him the Religion of Islam me, and that I would ship him this They asked me where I had come in Arabic He was overjoyed with copy from Baku. Before I left, he asked from, what I was doing in Uzbekistan, it. He read the foreword by Sheikh me twice not to forget to send him a whether the government knew that I Tantawi and was very happy with Dr. copy. was here and which organization did I

Mrs. Samina Malik in front of the Mosque and Library housing the Holy Quran of Hazrat Usman and translation of different languages in Tashkent Uzbekistan

Office Complex of the Grand Mufti of Uzbekistan Side View of the Office complex of the Mufti of Uzbekistan

[11] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Mrs. Samina Malik viewing the copy of the Holy Quran made by Hazrat Usman in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

One of the orginial copies of the Holy Quran made by Hazrat Usman in Tashkent Uzbekistan Holy Quran translation in different Languages in the Library of Tashkent Uzbekistan belong to. Then they asked me to write the Qadianis had opened some centers the University. He said if I ever wanted it all down in English for the Rector as in Central Asia. I told him all about to learn Arabic, I could come here, he knew English, and he would decide our movement, about the split and as they had excellent Arabic teachers. if he wanted to meet with me after about the claims of Hazrat Mirza Sahib In the end, he said that he was very reading my report. and our differences with the Quadianis. pleased to meet a lady who travels all I wrote a very nice letter to the Rector He was also interested in the countries over the world for Islam. I told him stating the reason for my visit and that that I had visited. Luckily, as I had that we have other members who also I had been in Uzbekistan for a few days the photographs on the hard drive of travel for Islam, but sometimes I travel and that I would be leaving tomorrow. my computer, I was able to show him alone, as they all have full time jobs. I also informed him that I had met the photographs of myself meeting with After taking leave of the Rector, rectors of all the other universities in Dr. Tantawi, with the Bosnian Mufti, on the way back, I thanked Almighty the different countries in that region. Mustafa Ceric, the Chairman of the Allah for His Help. So many people The assistant took the note to the Albanian Islamic community, Sheikh told me not to go to Uzbekistan rector who replied that he would meet Bastawasi and a few other people. He because of the political situation there. me the next day. I wrote another note was very impressed and pleased with the Even the Ombudsman in Kyrgyzstan, to him saying that I would be leaving photographs. Mr Koshokov Taalaibek, told me to for Baku tomorrow, and would not I informed him that we had sent send him the Qurans intended for be able to meet him. A few minutes fifty thousand Russian Holy Qurans Uzbekistan as it was difficult to ship the later one of the directors came back, to Russia for free distribution, and told Qurans there, and he would be able to and asked me to accompany him to that we could send him a few thousand help me. meet the Rector who now had some copies by March of next year. He was But my experience was different. free time. The Rector could speak a very pleased to accept the donation, and The Rector of the Islamic university little English. He said that he read my told his assistant to give me the address in Uzbekistan had been very happy to note and would like to hear what I had to which we could ship the books. He accept our offer of free Holy Qurans to say. I told him all about the Russian also presented me with a book detailing and had instructed his assistant to Holy Quran. He wanted to know which the history of the University in English. give me the address where to send the movement I belonged to, and said that He told his assistant to give me a tour of shipment, and that should I need any

[12] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Vice Mufti Shiekh Adburazzak Manzuur of Tashkent, Uzbekistan looking at the Russian Holy Quran and Arabic Religion of Islam

Mrs. Samina Malik presenting the Russian Holy Quran to Mufti Shiekh Abdurazzak Manzuur in Mrs. Samina Malik in front of the Islamic Tashkent Uzbekistan University of Tashkent Uzbekistan help, I should contact his assisstant. prayers and encouragement. Especially I would like to acknowledge the heartening was Dr. Hamid Rahman’s great help I received from Akbar e-mail in which he wrote ”if Janji would Akhundjanov in Tashkent who made have been alive, how happy he would the travel arrangements for me in these have been.” countries. Akbar Invited me to tea to I think of Janji every day of my meet his family. I will always treasure trip. Any small work I have done is their friendly and warm hospitality. all through his encouragement and We all should thank Almighty Allah prayers. When I am alone I think for the help He has given to our Jamaat. of him all the time and I really miss Without the help of the Almighty our him. A day before Eid, I even cried for Akbar Akhundjanov’s sons in Tashkent Jamaat could have not done all this. I him. May Almighty Allah Grant him a Uzbekistan also would like to thank you all for your place in Heaven.

The Rector of the Islamic University of Mrs. Samina Malik presenting the Russian Younger son of Akbar Akhundjanov with Mrs. Uzbekistan, Prof. Dr. Shukhrat Yovkochev looks at Holy Quran to Rector Dr. Shukhrat Yovkochev of Samina Malik the Russian Holy Quran University of Uzbekistan

[13] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Azerbaijan

I arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan on he himself firmly believed that the that her movement is getting the November 2. I was met at the airport Holy Prophet Muhmmad was the last Holy Quran translated into different by Brother Tahir Pasha and his wife prophet, and that no prophet, either languages and spreading it in the Ghummer who took me to the hotel. old or new, could come after him. The world. This Russian Holy Quran The next morning, accompanied by Sheikh said that he knew about our was translated by Prof. Dr. Sadestky. my interpreter, Rameeza Aligizi, I Russian Quran. He also recounted a The Sheikh was very happy to meet went to the office of the Sheikh-ul- brief history about their Organization Mrs. Malik and accept the donation Islam of Azerbaijan and requested an and gave me a book detailing its of three thousand copies of the interview with the Sheikh-ul Islam history. My meeting with the Sheikh Russian Quran for free distribution Prof Dr. Allahshukur Pashazadeh, was very pleasant. Inshallah, I will try in Azerbaijan. The Sheikh also (the main Sheikh of all of Azerbaijan). to get a copy of the recorded interview. thanked Mrs. Samina Malik and I was given an appointment for 3 Although the interview lasted for the Ahamadiyya Movement for o’clock that afternoon. When I thirty minutes, excerpts from it were their hard work in the translation arrived for the appointment, I saw shown for about seven minutes on TV. and publication of the Holy Quran. that there were reporters and a It was very clearly and nicely recorded. The Sheikh thanked Samina Malik cameraman from the State TV present Alhamdolillah! For the first time, for coming to visit him.” in the conference room. Before the news about the Lahore Ahmadiyya The front cover and the inside of meeting with the sheikh, I had no Movement and the work it does were the Russian Holy Quran as well as idea that the meeting was going to be shown on national and worldwide TV. segments of the sheikh opening the recorded for broadcast on national The translation of the news on the Quran and reading some verses from TV. Several of the Staff members of TV is as follows: it were shown on TV several times. I the Mufti’s department were also “Sheikh ul -Islam Prof Dr. was shown talking to the Sheikh and seated at the conference table. The Allahshukur Pashazadeh had a donating the Quran to him. As this interview lasted for thirty minutes, I guest from USA. Her name is Mrs. TV channel is a state satellite channel, talked about the Lahore Ahamdiyya Samina Malik and she belongs to Azeri people abroad who subscribe to Movement. I told the Sheikh about the Ahamadiyya Anjuman Ishaat this channel were also able to view it. the publication and translation work Islam Lahore USA. In the meeting After the meeting with the Sheikh, of the jamaat, and how the jamaat Mrs Samina Malik told the Sheikh I was given a tour of the Mosque and was spreading the message of the that she is touring Central Asia to the attached office complex. Holy Quran throughout the world. donate the Russian Holy Quran and I also met with Professor Dr. The Sheikh wanted to know the other books to the People of Central Mugaddas Payizov, who has been a difference between Qadiani and Asia. Samina Malik also told the professor of Arabic for the last forty Lahori Ahamdis, and in my answer I Sheikh that their Movement had years. He was delighted to see the made it clear that hazrat Mirza Sahib distributed fifty thousand Qurans Arabic Religion of Islam. He said that he never claimed prophethood, and that free in Russia She told the Sheikh would use it as a text book and placed

Vice Shiekh ul-Islam looking at the Russian The main Mosque of Baku, Azerbaijan Mrs. Samina Malik showing the Russian Holy Quran Holy Quran to Rector of the Arabic University of Azerbaijan, Prof Dr. Haci Sahir Hasanali

[14] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA an order for two hundred copies. He said that in addition to the Russian Quran, they would like to have the Turkish Quran which was perhaps more needed in this country as the Azeri people are Turkish speaking. The translation of the Turkish Quran is finished and it is presently being typeset. We shall, Inshallah, send it to them as soon as it is printed. Prof Payizov was also very pleased to read the foreword by Dr. Tantawi the Grand Imam of Sheikh ul-Azhar praising Maulana Muhammad Ali. We Thank Almighty Allah that we were able to put the endorsement of the Grand Imam of Al Azhar Dr. Tantawi in the Religion of Islam, as it greatly increases the value and prestige of the book in their estimation. I promised Prof Payizov that we, inshallah, would send him two hundred copies of the Arabic Religion of Islam. May Allmighty Allah Reward Mrs. Samina Malik presenting the Russian Holy Quran to Rector of the Arabic University of Azerbaijan, Prof Dr. Haci Sabir Hasanali Maulana Muhammad Ali for the great work he did by writing these books so copies soon. He was very happy to he came down stairs and showed me vitally important for both Muslims and hear that. He also expressed interest one of their Arabic classes. He told non- Muslims. in acquiring copies of our Turkish the students that it would not be long After the meeting with the Prof Translation of the Holy Quran. He before each one of them would soon Payizov I went to meet the Rector of was very impressed to see the Arabic have a free copy of the Holy Quran. I the Arabic University of Azerbaijan, Religion of Islam, and I promised thank Almighty Allah that my meeting Dr. Haci Sabir Hasanli. It was very that, inshallah, I would send him with the Rector went so well. kind of him to see me without a prior some copies for the University. He After meeting with the Rector, appointment. He told me that he was greatly interested in the work of we went to the Daily News Paper had heard about our Russian Quran the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, of Azerbaijan where I met two translation, but unfortunately had not and after I had told him about our journalists one of whom Taufiq been able to obtain one. So I gave him activities, he responded with a dua Turkel interviewed me. Thanks to a copy and told him that we would, that may Allah Taala Bless us for our Almighty Allah, the interview went Inshallah be sending three thousand sacrifice. When I was leaving his office, very well, and my account of the

Mrs. Samina Malik with students of the Arabic Rector of the Islamic University of Azerbaijan, Mrs. Samina Malik showing the Russian studies of Islamic University of Azerbaijan Prof Dr. Haci Sabir Hasanali biding farewell to Quran to Prof. Dr. Mugaddas Paizov of Islamic Mrs. Samina Malik Studies of Azerbaijan

[15] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement and its work was published in the paper on Monday. During my stay in Baku, I had the pleasure of meeting Brother Tahir Pasha’s Family who invited me twice to their house for dinner. His mother, sisters and nieces made me feel completely at home and I felt as if I was one of the family. I was very touched by their warm and friendly hospitality. Dr. Mugaddas Paizov, Prof of Islamic Studies Mrs. Samina Malik resents the Russian Holy They gave me some beautiful gifts with Mrs. Samina Malik Quran to Prof Dr. Mugaddas Payizov for myself and for Malaika, my granddaughter. May Almighty Allah Bless them all for their kindness, and I hope, inshallah to continue my friendship with them in the future. I would also like to thank my interpreter sister Rameeza for her help. She refused to accept payment for her services and said she was doing this work for Islam. I also would like to thank all the people in Baku who helped me in every way they could. An interesting thing happened after my interview with the Sheikh was broadcast on National TV. When I walked into the Hotel, all the Lobby staff began to applaud. I looked around to see whom they were applauding, but I could not see anyone. Then I realized, they were applauding me. They had seen my interview with the Sheikh on TV. They all crowded around me and asked me how they could get a copy of the Holy Mrs. Samina Malik in conference with the Shiekh Prof. Dr. Allahshukur Pashazada and staff in Baku, Quran. Similarly the next day when Azerbaijan I was in shop in the market, people

Shiekh-ul-Islam Prof. Dr. Allahshukur Shiekh-ul-Islam Prof. Dr. Allahshukur Mrs. Samina Malik presents the Russian Pashazadeh reading the verses of the Russian Holy Pashazadeh reading the review of the Shiekh Dr. Holy Quran to the Shiekh-ul-Islam Prof. Dr.. Quran Tantawi’s review in Arabic Religion of Islam Allahshukur Pashazada and members

[16] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA again surrounded me and asked how they could get copies of the holy Quran. I would like to thank all those who prayed for the success of the work in Central Asia and those who sent me encouraging emails. May Almighty Alllah Bless and Reward them all. I wish to thank Dr. Ahmad and the directors of the USA jamaat for reposing their trust in me when sending me on this mission. Dr. Ahmad and his wife Lubna kept in daily touch with me through e-mail, and their encouragement was a source Mrs. Samina Malik is giving a brief history of the importance of the translation of the Russian Holly of great comfort for me. Quran to Shiekh Prof. Dr. Allahshukur Pashazada and members. I would like to conclude with the observation that we stand on the shoulders of giants. It is the literature produced by Maulana Muhammad Ali inspired by the Mujaddid of this age Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad that gains the acceptance in the hearts of people. Our efforts are only a miniscule part of any success in this endeavour. Humanity and our jamaat owes an unestimable debt to these great men of God. I would like to end with an earnest prayer that may Almighty Allah accept the efforts of this small Jamaat and bring about the fulfillment of His The journalists who took the interview of Mrs. Samina Malik for the daily Newspaper promise. For we are weak and have many faults, and He is the All Mighty, the All Merciful and the All Forgiving. “O Allah help those who help the Religion of Muhammad and make us of them…”

Mr. Tahir Pashazada with the Shiekh ul Islam Journalists of the daily news paper of Baku Azerbaijan interviewing Mrs. Samina Malik Dr. Allahslukur Pashazada

[17] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Id ul Fitr Khutba

Compiled and delivered by Ebrahim Mohamed, But the question I have for all of us that 2. Does the Quran clearly explain who I President AAIL South Africa, 24th October 2006 have benefited from the Holy month of am and what role I play in the grand Ramadan, is what can we do collectively plan of the Divine scheme of things? He it is Who has sent His that would benefit humanity? Everything Messenger with the guidance we have done so far is for ourselves. The answer is an emphatic yes and I and the Religion of Truth that What is it that we can do in the way of challenge any skeptic to prove me wrong. He may make it prevail over all Allah? And the answer that I come up None of the previous scriptures (Torah, religions. (Ch 9: 33) with every time is that we should engage Injeel, Vedas, Bagha Vagita etc) are in in constructive propagation of the Holy its pure form any more and therefore its Praise be to Allah Who us brought Quran for the month of Shawwal is the depiction of the Divine Being are grossly us together so that we may share in the month in which the propagation of the imperfect and cannot be relied upon by joyous celebration of Id and afford us Holy Quran started. We should become any serious seeker after the truth. For the opportunity to ponder and reflect ambassadors of the Holy Quran by example, the Christians do not know if on His majestic teachings. Praise be familiarizing, nay at best, strive to gain God is one or three or four or whether to Allah Who has made us endure the a good understanding of its sublime God has a Son and whether the son is trials of the Ramadan as well as make us teachings and striving to model our own really a son or a god himself. Even the taste the blessings and joy of the Holy lives on it. Pope, who is the Head of the largest Month. Every Ramadan should bring But before I can do so, I need to know Christian group, admits that the Trinity a change in us for the better even if it if the Holy Book can provide me with or the Triune concept of God is confusing means discarding just one bad habit answers to the many questions that I and cannot be adequately explained. The going forward. Otherwise the fast was often struggle with. I cannot narrate all nature of the Christian God is one that is a waste. During the days of Ramadan the questions here for lack of time but extremely cruel and unjust. The God of plagued by the pangs of hunger and I will share some of them with you as I Christianity is said to have masterminded thirst, I realized that I will never be able am certain you grapple with the same the cruel and bloody execution of his only to look at a poor man in the same way questions. I also need to know whether ‘so called’ son for no offence committed ever again. I told myself that I need to the Quran provides the best answers by him; but to redeem other undeserving find a way of being less wasteful and find a credible institution that feeds the poor that I can support. There are many other lessons the Ramadan taught me but I But the question I have for all of us that have cannot share them all with you now as I do not have the time, but this is one I will benefited from the Holy month of Ramadan, is what concentrate on for the rest of the year. can we do collectively that would benefit humanity? I challenge each one of you, if you have not done so already, to do the same. For each one of you I know there must have or whether there are better answers sinful parties. How can anyone trust a been something that was of exceptional contained in other scriptures before I God like this when it comes to executing significance that the Ramadan inculcated can truly become an ambassador of the justice? Even humans of the worst kind in you that you would like to take forward Quran. will not resort to such a despicable act out with you after Ramadan. Perhaps you are I have therefore summarized the of their own free will. one who loses your temper very easily and questions I have and reduced it into two The way the Divine Being is depicted the Ramadan helped you to keep your main ones i.e. in the Quran, appeals to the reasoning temper under control? Or perhaps you are 1. Does the Quran provide me with a faculties of the human mind. As we look often neglectful of your prayers and the perfect concept of the existence and around us everywhere and we ponder on Ramadan helped you to be more regular nature of GOD, which no other His creation, we see everything is on an with your prayers? Only you know what is scripture can provide, that readily evolutionary path of progress, from the the best lesson the Ramadan had for you appeals to and satisfies my rational smallest vegetable seeds to vast luxuriant and which you would want to work on mind? plantations; from the smallest atoms to and uphold relentlessly for the rest of the the gigantic planets and galaxies in the year.

[18] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA universe; from inconceivable sperm cells sinners alike: Says the Holy Quran; not have the time to cover here today, is to the highest and best of his creation, contained in the Holy Quran alone and the human species, known as Adam or O My servants who have acted extravagantly nowhere else. So the Holy Book more Mankind. The list goes on and on, ad against their own souls! Do not despair of than answers my first question. infinitum. So the Divine Being or Allah the mercy of Allah, for Allah forgives sins On my second question as to whether as we name Him in Islam is aptly called altogether. (39:53) the Quran clearly explains who I am and “Rabb” in the Quran, an Arabic word what role I play in the grand plan of the which no other language has an equivalent Only from the Quran, we learn that Divine scheme of things, I find adequate for. The best the English can do to give Allah has been revealing Himself to evidence that pleases my rational mind, in some meaning to the word Rabb is; all nations, and Divine revelation is the Holy Quran. recognized as a universal fact. While The Holy Quran says; That Being Who brings everything into revelation of the highest kind through the existence from nothing, nourishes and angel Gabriel was peculiar to the prophets, So set et thy face upright for religion in the sustains it through several evolutionary stages; in its lower forms – through inspiration right state – the nature made by Allah in each stage being higher than the other until by the infusion of an idea into the mind, which He has made men; there is no altering such things reach its perfection. or in the form of a true dream or a vision of Allah’s creation; that is the right religion – revelation was granted to other than but most people do not know. (30:30) But this is not all; the Quran describes prophets, to men as well as women. the nature of the Divine being in such Surely we created man in the best make a way as not to be found in any other And it is not for any mortal that Allah (95:4) ancient scripture or modern writings. should speak to him except by infusing an The Holy Prophet’s, first mission was idea into the mind or from behind a veil or Unlike Christianity that teaches that to establish a grounding faith in Allah by sending a messenger and revealing by His every child is born in sin, the Holy in men. He did not start by applying permission what He pleases. (45:51) Prophet, explaining the first verse himself to removing degrading usages or above, said that “every child that is born evil customs or superstitions. Almost the Even unbelieving people are also spoken conforms to the true religion (lit. human whole of his Mecca revelation has but of as seeing significant and truthful nature i.e. Islam); it is his parents who one theme: Allah is the Creator (Rabb) of dreams. Thus in the history of the Prophet make him a Jew or a Christian or a all; He is the Nourisher of all, He reveals Yusuf (Joseph) we are told; Magian (Bukhari 23:80) Himself to man. He makes His will known Every child was thus recognized by to man, He is the Holy One, He is nearer And two youths entered the prison with him. birth to be a Muslim; the purity of human to man than his own soul, He is the One of them said, I saw myself pressing wine; nature was not affected by his being born Beneficient One, the Merciful One, the and the other said, I saw myself carrying of non- Muslim parents. Loving One, the Affectionate One, the bread on my head of which birds ate (12:36) Everything created by Allah, we are Forgiving One, the Giver of all gifts, the further told, was made according to a Ample Giving, He listen’s to every man’s And the King said, I see seven fat kine which measure so that it could not go beyond a prayer, He loves good and hates evil, He seven lean kine devoured, and seven green certain limit. loves those who serve the poor and those ears and (seven) other dry; O Chiefs explain in distress, He loves the truthful ones and to me my dream. (12:43) Glorify the name of thy Lord, the Most so on. High, Who creates things, then makes them Both the youths and the King were complete; And Who makes things according As for the nature of Allah, we find unbelievers, and the three dreams were to a measure, then guides them to their goal. that the Quran does not depict Him as a interpreted by Joseph as speaking of future (87: 1 -3) wrathful, punitive God ready to punish events, being prophetical in their essence. at all times. In fact we find that His So from an uncivilized state when Mercy extends to all mankind regardless So this is sufficient to prove to me mankind was still a slave to and of religion, race or creed. We find that that Allah’s ni’mat or goodness to worshipper of the forces of nature, the His kindness and Mercy are boundless, mankind is magnanimous, transcending Holy Prophet through the teachings of the beyond the conception of man; He all boundaries. So this is the God that Holy Quran raised the early Muslims to is Merciful to the believers and to the is worthy of my worship and emulation the dignity of Master and Ruler over the unbelievers, the righteous and to the and this description and more which I do forces of nature. By realizing their position

[19] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA and role in nature in the grand Divine to another higher stage is endless. The aim al Bayan fi Maqasid al – Quran) scheme of things, the early Muslims took and goal, according to the Holy Quran, is vigorous strides towards the expansion not this worldly life and the conquest of Surely a day will come over hell when it will of knowledge and the advancement of nature but it goes much further; progress be like a field of corn that has dried up after sciences. Reading and writing was within to realms that the eyes have not seen and flourishing for a while. (Kanz al Ummal) a few years spread throughout the whole the ears have not heard of (according to of Arabia and other countries which came the Holy Prophet). Our progress goes In another Hadith, the inmates of hell under the influence of Islam, and the beyond this world into the next world. are expressly stated as being placed on the Muslim State so encouraged the pursuit of Says the Holy Quran of the believers in road to a higher life; study and scientific research that centers the next life: of learning and universities sprang up “Then Allah will say, Bring out (of the fire) throughout the empire of Islam. Unlike Allah has promised to the believing men and every one in whose heart there is faith or the dark ages that set in after Christianity, the believing women gardens in which rivers goodness to the extent of a mustard seed, so Islam left behind a trail of light and flow, to abide in them, and goodly dwellings they will be taken out having become quite learning that gave rise to the renaissance in gardens of perpetual abode; and greatest black; then they will be thrown into the river (the revival of learning) in Europe. of all is Allah’s goodly pleasure – that is the of life and they will grow as grows a seed by But although the Holy Quran inspired grand achievement. ( 9:72) the side of the river” the contributions of human thought on (Bu: 2: 15) the physical sphere which led to man’s So while spiritual realization is limited conquest of the forces of nature, it, more in this world, the next world opens This report is conclusive on the importantly, brought about a complete unlimited fields of advancement to higher remedial nature of Hell and establishes change in the spiritual outlook of man. and higher stages. Paradise was thus beyond a doubt that all men will About Allah we are told; according to the Prophet, the starting ultimately be set free on the way to a point for an advancement to higher and higher life. Who made good everything that He created, higher spiritual stages; hence the high and He began the creation of man from dust; places to which the faithful shall be raised, Then He made his progeny of an extract know no end, as there are still higher The Holy Quran, teaches of water held in light estimation; Then He places above them, and hence the ardent made him complete and breathed into him of desire for more and more light in that life. that even those who His spirit. (32:7-9) The Holy Quran, teaches that even wasted their opportunity those who wasted their opportunity in in this life by engrossment This verse shows a mystic relation of this life by engrossment in lower desires the spirit of man with the Divine Spirit would ultimately be saved, hell being only in lower desires would and refers to the higher life of man. The a remedial stage in the higher life of man. ultimately be saved... destiny of man we are taught by the Holy Hell is called in the Quran as maula or Quran through the Holy Prophet was friend of the sinners in one place (57:15) therefore higher than the mere conquest and Umm or Mother in another (101:9) So with this knowledge from the Holy of nature on the physical plain; it was to All men, both believers and unbelievers, Quran corroborated by the Holy Prophet seek union with the Divine Spirit. That is were created for mercy, and the purpose in places about who I am and what is my the ultimate goal of all mankind. Says the of Allah i.e. the meeting with Him or role in the grand Divine scheme of things, Holy Quran; reaching the highest stage of our spiritual I am highly satisfied that my second evolution must ultimately be fulfilled. The question has been adequately answered O Soul that are at rest! Return to they Lord, sinners we are told will have a hard life in and I am ready to serve as an ambassador well-pleased with Him, well-pleasing Him. So Hell for a while because they avoided the of the Holy Quran and engage in the enter among My servants, And enter into My “hard striving” here which was needed to propagation of its sublime message to Garden. (89: 27-30) bring them closer to their Lord. But this those who are sincere seekers after the ‘hard life’ will not last forever as with the truth. So I pass this message on to you, in The goal of life for every human being teachings of Christianity for we are assured the hope that I have adequately motivated is therefore Liqa – Allah, or the meeting on the authority of the Holy Prophet; and inspired you to do likewise. of Allah in the language of the Holy Surely a day will come over hell when there Quran. So man’s progress from one stage shall not be a single human being in it. (Fath Barakallah!

[20] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Publisher’s Note to Italian Translation of the Holy Quran

In 1988, at the behest of the late Maulana Muhammad Ali’s English is currently translating Maulana Hazrat Ameer, Dr. Saeed Ahmad, the translation of the Holy Quran and Muhammad Ali’s monumental Ahmadiyya Anjuman Isha’at Islam commentary into Italian. In March treatise, The Religion of Islam. The Lahore USA undertook the project of 2005, Dr. Noman Malik and I cost of the translation and printing of to translate the second edition of flew to Genoa, Italy to meet Ms. Sara the Italian Holy Quran trans-lation Maulana Muhammad Ali’s English Crovetto to finalize the arrangements project has been borne by Chaudry translation of the Holy Quran into the for this project. Alhamdolillah! Ms. Sadaat Ahmad of Pakistan. May major languages of the world. Maulana Sara Crovetto, dedicating herself to Almighty Allah reward him and Muhammad Ali originally published this work with such zeal and passion, his family for their devotion and his monumental English translation completed the entire translation in sacrifices towards this essential cause. of the Holy Quran with an exhaustive an unprecedented eight months. The The typesetting cost has been paid by commentary in 1917. This was the translation has been meticulously the USA Jamaat. Along with other first English translation of the Holy checked and proof-read by Mr. Holy Quran translation projects Quran by a Muslim to become widely Marco Beggatio, a professional Italian simultaneously in the works, I was available in the western world and, translator currently residing in Akron, closely involved in managing and as such, it fulfilled the long expressed Ohio. Dr. Noman Malik spent his coordinating this particular project, wish of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad weekends for several months analyzing having made several trips to Italy in (d.1908), the mujaddid (reformer) of and discussing the suggested changes to this regard. Of great assistance to me the fourteenth century hijra, to present the translation with Ms.Sara Crovetto in the final stages of this project was the sublime teaching of Islam to the over the telephone. His knowledge of Mr. Ken White of Megg Enterprises West. Maulana Muhammad Ali, the correct meaning and proper uses in Campbell River, Canada, who citing the greatly increased knowledge of various diligently and understanding of the Quran Quranic worked on he acquired since the publication of terms the type- the first edition, decided to revise was very setting his English translation of the Holy valuable in with such Quran. He completed this arduous producing patience and task just days before his death on 13th the final grace. All October 1951. The second edition result of affairs are in of the English translation of the this work. the Hands Holy Quran was published in 1953. The final of Almighty Masha Allah, as providence would work has Allah, and have it, in December 2004, the USA also come all projects Jamaat received correspondence to fruition are com- from Ms. Sara Crovetto, residing in after Mrs. pleted at the Genoa, Italy, requesting permission Lubna time of His to translate the English translation Ahmad, of choosing, and commentary of the Holy Quran the USA as He is the by Maulana Muhammad Ali into Jamaat, Best Knower. Italian. Ms.Sara Crovetto is an Italian checked The guiding Muslim and an extremely gifted the entire spirit behind translator. Her request was followed Arabic text all of the by a sample translation of the Sura portion of translation Fatiha in Italian which was determined the work. projects to be excellent upon evaluation. The Ms. Sara undertaken enthusiasm ofthe translator and the Crovetto by the excellence of her work prompted the has also U.S.A. decision to proceed with the project translated four other books of the Jammat has been our late Hazrat to translate the second edition of Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement and Ameer, Dr. Saeed Ahmad Khan

[21] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Sahib (may Almighty Allah grant Mirza Ghulam Ahmad himself, Dr. Quranic verse: Our Lord, we believe in him paradise). It is because of this Saeed Ahmad was a true example that which Thou hast revealed and we extremely pious and righteous man’s of fulfilling the condition of the follow the Messenger, so write us down encouragement, advice, inspiration pledge to “Hold the cause of Religion with those who bear witness. (3:53). and, most importantly, prayers, that above worldly affairs.” May Almighty Ameen! Samina Malik Vice President, these projects are now coming to Allah Bless and Reward those who Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam, (Lahore) fruition. Having taken the pledge of participated in thisgreat jihad. I would USA Inc. Director in charge Publication and fealty (bai’at) at the hands of Hazrat like to end this Preface with the Translation September 14, 2006 Publisher’s Note to German Translation of the Holy Quran

In 1988, at the behest of the late supervision of MaulanaSadr-ud-Din, had been exhausted. In response to Hazrat Ameer, Dr. Saeed Ahmad, the who later became the second head of his call, the ladies of the Jamaat took Ahmadiyya Anjuman Isha‘at Islam, the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, off the jewelry they were wearing, (Lahore) USA undertook the project themosque holds a position dear to the constituting a woman’s life savings to translate the second edition of hearts of Lahore Ahmadis the world in those days, and donated it for the Maulana Muhammad Ali’s English over due to thetremendous sacrifices construction of the minarets.With translation of the Holy Qur’ån made by the organization in funding this background, Dr. Saeed Ahmad into the major languages of gave priority to translating the theworld. Maulana Muhammad Jamaat’s literature into German. Ali originally published his By the Grace of Almighty Allah, monumental English translation the Jamaat’s major books, such as of the Holy Qur’ån with an the Religion of Islam and Manual exhaustive commentary in of Hadith, have been available in 1917. This was the first English German for some time.Although translation of the Holy Qur’ån an older translation of the Holy by a Muslim to become widely Qur’ån in German, published available in the western world by Maulana Sadr-ud-Din existed, and, as such, it fulfilled the long a fresh translation was required. expressed wish of Hazrat Mirza This project was commenced in Ghulam Ahmad (d.1908), the 1989 when Dr. Peter Willmer, mujaddid (reformer) of the Lecturer at the University of fourteenth century hijra, to British Columbia, was chosen present the sublime teaching as the translator from a field of of Islam to the West. In 1946, experts. The result is a modern, Maulana Muhammad Ali, accurate and thoroughly checked citing the greatly increased translation. Dr. Wilmer dedicated knowledge and understanding himself to this work, giving it his of the Qur’ån he had acquired utmost attention, and overcame since the publication of the many trying circumstances in first edition, decided to revise order to bring it to fruition. The his English translation of the translation has been checked Holy Qur’ån. He completed this several times to ensure accuracy. arduous task just days before Notwithstanding that, after his death on 13th October 1951. its construction during the difficult witnessing the thoroughness with The second edition of the English post World War I years. The most which Mr. Abdoel Saied Hoeseni translation of theHoly Qur’ån was prominent incident of this occurred (Zebier), President of the Stichting published in 1953. In 1921, the at an annual meeting in Lahore when Ahmadiyya Isha‘at-i-Islam in Holland, Ahmadiyya Anjuman Isha‘at Islam Maulana Muhammad Ali appealed to reviewed the Dutch translation of the established a famous mosque and the women of the Jamaat for donations Holy Qur’ån, it was decided that a missionhouse (known popularly as Die for the building of the minarets of the final review of the German translation Moschee) in Berlin. Built under the mosque, as the construction funds be conducted by Mr. Hoeseni as

[22] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA well since he is also familiar with has been borne by the two brothers, Dr. Saeed Ahmad KhanSahib (may the German language. This decision Mr. Izaz Ilahi Malik of Pakistan and Almighty Allah grant him paradise). would necessitate a two year delay in Dr. Noman Ilahi Malik of the USA It is because of this extremely pious the publication of this translation, but Jamaat. The typesetting expenses have and righteous man’s encouragement, the expertise Mr. Hoeseni would bring been paid by the USA Jamaat. The advice, inspiration and, most to this project, which he acquired by entire Arabic text has been proof read importantly, prayers, that these projects working with the Dutch translation by Mrs. Lubna Ahmad. May Almighty are now coming to fruition. Having of the Holy Qur’ån combined with Allah Reward and Bless them and taken the pledge of fealty (bai’at) at his thorough knowledge of Islamic their families for their sacrifice and the hands of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam concepts, made the choice very contribution to this work. Along Ahmad himself, Dr. Saeed Ahmad worth while. Mr. Hoeseni checked with other Holy Qur’ån translation was a true example of fulfilling the the entire work, comprising both the projects simultaneously in the works, I condition of the pledge to “Hold Qur’ån verses as well as the exhaustive was closely involved in managing and the cause of Religion above worldly footnotes, painstakingly reviewing coordinating this particular project. Of affairs.” May Almighty Allah Bless the most detailed of points with great assistance to me in the final stages and Reward those who participated native German speakers in academic of this project was Mr. Ken White of in this great jihad. I would like to end positions. This additional work Megg Enterprises in CampbellRiver, this Preface with the Qur’ånic verse: has provided an assurance that the Canada, who diligently worked on Our Lord, we believe in that which German Holy Qur’ån translation is a the typesetting with such patience and Thou hast revealed and we follow the product that is true to the spirit of the grace. All affairs are in the Hands of Messenger, so write us down with original. May Almighty Allah reward Almighty Allah, and all projects are those who bear witness (3:53).Ameen! Dr. Wilmer and Mr. Hoeseni for their completed at the time of His choosing, Samina MalikVice-President Ahmadiyya diligent work and may He bless both of as He is the Best Knower. The guiding Anjuman Isha’at Islam Lahore USA, their families for the sacrifices they too spirit behind all of the translation pro- Inc. Director in charge of Publication and made in the cause of this work. The jects undertaken by the USA Jamaat Translation. Dublin, Ohio USA, October cost of the translation and printing has been our late Hazrat Ameer, 2006

Dutch Religion of translation projects of the Stichting English translation of jamaats. May Allah Almighty Bless Islam and Reward Brother Husseini for this Mujaddid-e-Azam great service to Islam. At present the Alhamdolillah! The Dutch Religion Stichting Jamaat has more than thirty Alhamdulillah! Dr. Hamid Rahman of Islam has been published by the books of the literature of the Lahore is busy working with Mr. Ken White Stichting Jamaat in Holland. The Ahmadiyya Movement translated into of Megg Enterprises in completing the new printing is in modern Dutch Dutch which are ready for printing. typeset of volume one of The Great and follows the format of the current The main obstacle in publishing Reformer, the English translation English Religion of Islam. Together these books is lack of funds. Members of the Biography of Hazrat Mirza with the Dutch Holy Quran, this wishing to contribute towards printing Ghulam Ahmad, by Dr. Bashaarat literature will go a long way towards these books should contact the Ahmad. This first volume will be projecting the true peaceful , Stichting Jamaat. We all can fulfill printed, Inshallah, in 2007. May reasonable and tolerant Islam which is our obligation as Ahmadis by helping Almighty Allah Bless and Reward so greatly needed in Western Europe. provide these funds both on a Jamaat Dr. Hamid Rahman for his years of Both Muslims, especially the youth and individual level. sacrifice in translating this voluminous who have been born in these countries work which is so desperately needed and are essentially European , as well to remove the misconceptions and as Non-Muslims will greatly benefit misunderstandings about the life and from these books. Brother Shabbir mission of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Hussieni has been the moving spirit Ahmad. behind this endevour and other

[23] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Distribution of the Holy Quran in Russia

In April 2006, Mrs. Samina Malik made her third trip to Russia in connection with the distribution of the Russian Holy Quran. Nineteen thousand Russian Holy Qurans were printed in India and shipped to Russia. The printing cost was $38.000.00, and the film preparation and storage charges amounted to almost $5000.00 The shipping charge was $8,000.00 for the forty foot container. Samina Malik with Russian Muslims outside a Masjid in Moscow Russia. After considerable difficulty Mrs. Samina Malik was able to clear the Holy Qurans through customs. With this shipment the number of Russian Holy Qurans shipped to Russia totals to approximately fifty thousand. Hazrat Mirza Sahib has prophesized that his followers in Russia would be as numerous as the grains of sand in the desert. We do not know whether this prophecy will be fulfilled in our lifetimes or not, but we do know that an essential prerequisite for its fulfillment is that knowledge of the Samina Malik with Imam Ishmail outside Samina Malik with the Mufti of St. Holy Quran inspired by the Promised the St. Petersburg Customs Office. Petersburg Mosque. Messiah and Mahdi should reach the Russian people. It cannot be over emphasized, that this is the right time to introduce our literature into Russia and the Central Asian Republics. The majority of religious leaders and public are not prejudiced against the Lahore Ahmadyya Movement, and people are thirsty for Islamic knowledge. Once they are exposed to the God inspired and enlightend literature of Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad and Maulana Muhammad Ali, the demand for it, Inshallah, is bound to increase.

Russian Muslim women attending Jummah Prayers at the Hilal Foundation Mosque in Moscow.

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Community Activities “Lahore Ahmadiyya Islamic Society” opportunities for respectful dialogue and not any law firm. Thus, Fazeel is will present themselves so that greater of the USA Jamaat able to serve a very worthy community understanding between Muslims and activity in this capacity as well as Christians may be created. AAIIL(USA) is making a concerted enhance awareness of the Lahore effort to partake in various community Ahmadiyya Society in a prominent and Martin W. Essex School for activities so that greater opportunities active public forum. the Gifted – For the past 8 years, the arise in which the views of the Lahore Martin W. Essex School for the Gifted Ahmadiyya Society may be presented Interfaith Association of program has asked AAIIL(USA) to and understood. With the rise in Greater Columbus – Dr. and represent Islam in its panel of religious misinformation and misunderstanding Mrs. Malik are regular participants scholars. The program is held annually about Islam in the U.S., we believe it in various activities sponsored by at Ohio State University and one is incumbent upon each individual the Interfaith Association of Greater of its courses focuses exclusively on member of the Jamaat in this country Columbus. In fact, Mrs. Samina religion. In this course, a panel of to be active in the community and by Malik is a director of the Columbus representatives from various religions, personal example reveal that Islam International Airport Meditation including Christianity, Roman is a peaceful, tolerant and rational Room, a private room located at the Catholicism, Hinduism, Buddhism, faith. Some of the recent community baggage claim level which people may Judaism and Islam, speak about their activities by Director’s of AAIIL(USA) use to pray under the control of the respective faiths and answer questions are listed below: Interfaith Association. Mrs. Malik posed by the students of the program. supplies the Meditation Room with The program provides a unique Mayor’s Prayer Lunch – Fazeel Jamaat literature and ensures that opportunity to discuss general issues S. Khan was invited to attend the conditions are acceptable for the of commonality between religions and Mayor’s Prayer Lunch, an annual event Islamic mode and manner of prayer. present Islam’s unique concepts in sponsored by the Mayor of Columbus Recently, Dr. and Mrs. Malik attended relation to such issues in a classroom Ohio’s Office and the Community a function hosted by the President setting. Issues such as, what are heaven Relations Commission. The purpose of the Interfaith Association. In and hell, why does God punish, how of the event is to recognize God addition to meeting and greeting with does one attain salvation, and what is in public life and commend the representatives of other faiths, Dr. the purpose of life, are discussed. As contributions of religious communities Malik presented a short summary of has been the case every year, extremely in making the city of Columbus a Surah Fatiha to the group which was encouraging comments were received better place to live in. While at the very much appreciated. by the students about the presentation lunch, Fazeel spoke to Mayor Coleman on Islam. Students generally express about the Lahore Ahmadiyya Society, First Community Church their lack of knowledge about Islam its renowned publication work, and – Fazeel S. Khan was requested by the and how fascinated they are to know its critical role in bringing about inter- First Community Church to speak to about its rational principles. This year, religious peace in the U.S. and abroad. the members of the Men’s Breakfast, Masha Allah, one student in fact stated An invitation for next year’s event has a group of church-goers who meet he had been studying a few religions already been presented to Fazeel. every Wednesday to listen to a talk closely for some years now, particularly and discuss it over breakfast. Fazeel Buddhism and Sikhism, and after ADA(OHIO) – Fazeel S. Khan was specifically asked to speak on learning about Islam through this has been elected as a board member “Islam and Democracy”. Masha Allah, program, he is convinced he wants to of ADA(OHIO). ADA(OHIO) is Fazeel had presented an excellent become a Muslim. Fazeel S. Khan has a non-profit organization devoted speech that had grasped the audience’s been the regular Islamic representative to furthering the goals of the attention from beginning to end. The for this program for the past several Americans with Disabilities Act in speech infused an active question years. Ohio and works closely with similar and answer session that led to lively organizations nationally. Although discussions. Dr. Mohammed Ahmad Fazeel’s qualification as a practicing and Dr. Noman Malik accompanied attorney in Ohio is of great benefit to Fazeel at the event and all three the organization, Fazeel is officially on were treated with much respect and the board as a representative of the kindness. It is hoped that more such

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12 THE LIGHT AND ISLAMIC REVIEW � JANUARY – MARCH 2006 JANUARY – MARCH 2006 � THE LIGHT AND ISLAMIC REVIEW 13

Apostasy and Fiqh Press Releases: AAIIL(USA) strongly condemns “Jyllands-Posten” However, resorting to violence and rage is certainly not for its cartoon depictions of the Holy Prophet what is prescribed in Islam. Dr. Mohammed Ahmad, Turning to Fiqh, we find that the jurists first lay down Muhammad and advises Muslims to bear this attack Physician at MedOhio Clinic in Columbus, Ohio and a principle quite opposed to the Quran, namely that the AAIIL(USA) Comments with patience and defend its faith by informing the President of AAIIL(USA) explains: life of a man may be taken on account of his apostasy. public of the true character of the Holy Prophet. Thus in the Hidayah: “The murtadd (apostate) shall have on the Danish Cartoon “Upon receiving abuse from persons of other Islam presented to him whether he is a free man or a Controversy and the Afghan Columbus, Ohio, USA - AAIIL(USA), the U.S. faiths, the Holy Quran tells Muslims to bear such slave; if he refused, he must be killed” (H.I, p.576). But branch of the worldwide Muslim organization The provocations with patience, ignore the abusive acts this principle is contradicted immediately afterwards Apostasy Trial Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, not only strongly con- and to exercise forgiveness in view of the igno- when the apostate is called “an unbeliever at war (kafir- demns the Danish newspaper “Jyllands-Posten” for its rance displayed by the abusers. For instance, the un harabiyy-un) whom the invitation of Islam has already By Fazeel S. Khan irresponsible conduct of repeatedly publishing carica- Holy Quran states: ‘Bear patiently what they say’ reached” (H.I, p. 577). This shows that even in Fiqh, the In an attempt to publicize the views of the Lahore tures of the Holy Prophet Muhammad in which he is (20:130); ‘And disregard their hurtful talk’ (33:48); apostate forfeits his life because he is considered to be an Ahmadiyya Movement regarding current world events depicted in an extremely degrading manner but also ‘Hold fast to forgiveness and enjoin goodness and enemy at war with the Muslims. And in the case of the in which Islamic principles are at issue, the U.S.A. advises Muslims to bear this attack on their beloved turn away from the ignorant’ (7-199)”. apostate woman, the rule is laid down that she shall not branch of the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement recently Prophet and on their faith with patience. be put to death, and the following argument is given: AAIIL(USA) would like to take this opportunity to published Press Releases to two significant events that “Not only is it commonly known that the pictorial respond, with patience, to Jylland-Posten by inviting it “Our reason for this is that the holy Prophet forbade the have received extensive media attention. killing of women, and because originally rewards (for portrayal of Prophets of God is forbidden in Islam, the and all others to learn about the true character of the belief and unbelief) are deferred to the latter abode, and On February 10, 2006, AAIIL(USA) released its level of vulgarity displayed in these particular cartoons Holy Prophet and judge for oneself whether the cartoon their hastening (in this life) brings disorder, and a depar- comments on the Danish cartoon controversy. The pur- of a holy figure of a religion with over one billion adher- depictions were fair or even based on an iota of truth. ture from this (principle) is allowed only on account of an pose for this particular press release was two-fold. First, ents in the world is truly outrageous conduct on the part For those interested, a sample of the true character of immediate mischief and that is hirab (war), and this can- to condemn Jyllands Posten for publishing the obscene of Jyllands-Posten”, stated Dr. Noman Malik, the Holy Prophet Muhammad is available online at: not be expected from women on account of the unfitness and extremely distasteful pictorials of the Holy Prophet Pathologist at Mount Carmel Hospital in Columbus, http://www.muslim.org/islam/pr-life/l0.htm. of their constitution” (H.I, p. 577). And the annotator Muhammad which naturally fueled anger and disgust Ohio and Treasurer of AAIIL(USA). AAIIL(USA) is available for more detailed discussions on this matter. To learn more about the Lahore adds: “The killing for apostasy is obligatory in order to from all quarters. Second, to advise Muslims of the In Islam, pictures of any prophet of God, whether it Ahmadiyya Movement, visit www.muslim.org. prevent the mischief of war, and it is not a punishment for appropriate response to such provocations, as mandated be Adam, Noah, Moses, Jesus or Muhammad, is forbid- the act of unbelief” (ibid). It will be seen that, as in the in the Holy Quran. den - the rationale being - so that the physical depictions Contact: Samina Malik, Vice-President, AAIIL case of war against unbelievers, the legists are laboring of these holy personages do not become objects of wor- (USA) [email protected]; (614) 873-1030; P.O. Box under a misconception, and a struggle is clearly seen The Danish Cartoon Press Release received an extremely favorable response. E-mails from around the ship. The Jylland-Posten caricatures, however, go 3370, Dublin, OH 43017 going on between the principles as established in the beyond the simple issue of what is advised by a religion world were sent congratulating AAIIL(USA) for pub- Similarly, on March 24, 2006, AAIIL(USA) again Quran and the misconceptions which had somehow or with regards to depictions of holy personages. These licly addressing this issue from a calm and rational per- issued a Press Release regarding the apostasy trial of the other found their way into the minds of the legists. It cartoons were a direct attack on the Holy Prophet spective. Many popular media sources displayed the Mr. Abdul Rahman in Afghanistan. The Press Release is clearly laid down that the apostate is killed, not on Muhammad’s character and on the Islamic faith. Press Release, including: has been very well received by media outlets, internet account of his unbelief but on account of hirab or of his Although a claim to “freedom of speech” is commonly discussion forums and individuals interested in world being in a state of war, and the argument is plainly given PR Newswire employed as a safeguard by those who maliciously affairs. Internet resource sites such as encyclopedia. that killing of unbelievers is against the accepted princi- Yahoo! insult others, Fazeel S. Khan, Attorney at the law firm com and infoplease.com also provide links to the ples of Islam. But the misconception is that the mere abil- The Seattle Times of Blaugrund, Herbert & Martin in Dublin, Ohio and Apostasy Trial Press Release, which furthers the pri- ity to fight is taken as a war condition, which is quite eReleases Secretary of AAIIL(USA) argues: illogical. If it is meant that the apostate possesses the Forbes mary goal of educating non-Muslims about the true potentiality to fight, then potentially even a child may be Canada.com Network “Freedom of speech does not protect ‘hate speech’ principles of Islam and correcting misunderstood called a harabiyy (one at war), because he will grow up Yahoo! Canada - the type of communications that incite anger and beliefs held by Muslims themselves. violence against others. Furthermore, freedom of to be a man and have the ability to fight; even woman Yahoo! UK & Ireland March 24, 2006 apostates cannot be excepted because they also possess speech does not safeguard material that is DallasNews.com For Immediate Release ‘obscene’, as defined by the standards of the com- the potentiality to fight. The law of punishment is based Texas Cable News munity. It can certainly be argued that the Jylland- In Islam, “There is No Compulsion in Religion”: not on potentialities but on facts. Thus, even the Fiqh rec- AZ Central Posten cartoons are excluded from the loosely used AAIIL(USA) Comments on the Apostasy Trial in ognizes the principle that the life of a man cannot be The Press-Enterprise Inland Southern CA term ‘freedom of speech’ on both of these grounds. Afghanistan. taken for mere change of religion, and that, unless the Hoover’s Online apostate is in a state of war, he cannot be killed. It is quite The Danish press as well as the Danish govern- Lycos Columbus, Ohio, USA: AAIIL(USA), the U.S. a different matter that the legists should have made a mis- ment surely had an opportunity to prevent the pub- CBS MarketWatch branch of the worldwide Islamic organization The take in defining hirab or a state of war. � lication of these insulting and hurtful depictions Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, appeals to the Afghan The Danish Cartoon Press Release is reproduced below: without compromising its democratic ideals”. government as well as Muslims internationally to February 10, 2006 Clearly, Muslims around the world are justified in practically demonstrate that Islam is a religion of For Immediate Release feeling offended by the Jylland-Posten publications. peace and humanity by denouncing the view that

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JANUARY – MARCH 2006 � THE LIGHT AND ISLAMIC REVIEW 13 14 THE LIGHT AND ISLAMIC REVIEW � JANUARY – MARCH 2006

AAIIL(USA) strongly condemns “Jyllands-Posten” However, resorting to violence and rage is certainly not according to Islam apostasy is a crime punishable by http://www.muslim.org/bookspdf/jihadinislam.pdf. To for its cartoon depictions of the Holy Prophet what is prescribed in Islam. Dr. Mohammed Ahmad, death. learn about the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, visit Muhammad and advises Muslims to bear this attack Physician at MedOhio Clinic in Columbus, Ohio and www.muslim.org. “Although a mandatory death sentence for apostasy with patience and defend its faith by informing the President of AAIIL(USA) explains: may be found in other religious scriptures, for example Contact: Samina Malik, Vice-President, AAIIL public of the true character of the Holy Prophet. “Upon receiving abuse from persons of other Deuteronomy 13:6-10, the Holy Quran does not pre- (USA); [email protected]; (614) 873-1030 Columbus, Ohio, USA - AAIIL(USA), the U.S. faiths, the Holy Quran tells Muslims to bear such scribe any punishment for apostasy”, says Dr. Noman In response to the Apostasy Trial Press Release, the branch of the worldwide Muslim organization The provocations with patience, ignore the abusive acts Malik, Treasurer of AAIIL(USA). popular blog “OH!PINION”, an internet forum for Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, not only strongly con- and to exercise forgiveness in view of the igno- The subject of apostasy is referred to several times in thoughtful commentary on ideas, events, people and demns the Danish newspaper “Jyllands-Posten” for its rance displayed by the abusers. For instance, the the Quran (16:106, 2:117, 3:85-89, 5:54, etc.) but nei- policies shaping the world, posted an article entitled irresponsible conduct of repeatedly publishing carica- Holy Quran states: ‘Bear patiently what they say’ ther is death nor any other punitive measure imposed. “U.S. Muslims say apostasy not capital offense”. Some tures of the Holy Prophet Muhammad in which he is (20:130); ‘And disregard their hurtful talk’ (33:48); On the contrary, the Holy Quran mandates unqualified of the comments in the article include: depicted in an extremely degrading manner but also ‘Hold fast to forgiveness and enjoin goodness and religious freedom by declaring: “There is no compul- advises Muslims to bear this attack on their beloved turn away from the ignorant’ (7-199)”. sion in religion” (2:256), “The Truth is from your Lord; “The U.S. affiliate of a worldwide Muslim organ- Prophet and on their faith with patience. ization begs to differ with its Afghan brothers AAIIL(USA) would like to take this opportunity to so let him who please believe, and let him who please about death being the prescribed penalty for those “Not only is it commonly known that the pictorial respond, with patience, to Jylland-Posten by inviting it disbelieve” (18:29), “We have shown him the way, he who leave the faith.” portrayal of Prophets of God is forbidden in Islam, the and all others to learn about the true character of the may be thankful or unthankful” (76:3), etc. level of vulgarity displayed in these particular cartoons Holy Prophet and judge for oneself whether the cartoon Dr. Mohammad Ahmad, President of AAIIL(USA) “According to AAIIL(USA), which is part of the of a holy figure of a religion with over one billion adher- depictions were fair or even based on an iota of truth. explains: “Much of the confusion surrounding the pun- Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, only people who ents in the world is truly outrageous conduct on the part For those interested, a sample of the true character of ishment for apostasy in Islam is due to a lack of careful leave Islam and end up fighting members of their of Jyllands-Posten”, stated Dr. Noman Malik, the Holy Prophet Muhammad is available online at: study of Hadith reports … upon close examination, former faith deserve the death penalty. And then, Pathologist at Mount Carmel Hospital in Columbus, http://www.muslim.org/islam/pr-life/l0.htm. these reports reveal that any apostate that was killed by AAIIL(USA) maintains, the wrongdoing is trea- Ohio and Treasurer of AAIIL(USA). AAIIL(USA) is available for more detailed discussions the Muslims was either actively fighting the Muslims or son, not apostasy.” on this matter. To learn more about the Lahore In Islam, pictures of any prophet of God, whether it was an enemy in war.” “We hope the humane and well-meaning folks at Ahmadiyya Movement, visit www.muslim.org. be Adam, Noah, Moses, Jesus or Muhammad, is forbid- Attorney Fazeel S. Khan, Secretary of AAIIL(USA) AAIIL(USA) will be able to get through to the den - the rationale being - so that the physical depictions Contact: Samina Malik, Vice-President, AAIIL further explains: “Just as treason is a crime under the Afghan clerics and others who all but had poor of these holy personages do not become objects of wor- (USA) [email protected]; (614) 873-1030; P.O. Box United States Constitution, the offender of which ‘shall Abdul Rahman’s neck in a noose. If a big chunk ship. The Jylland-Posten caricatures, however, go 3370, Dublin, OH 43017 suffer death’ according to Congress, so too does Islam of the civilized world had not gotten in their way, beyond the simple issue of what is advised by a religion Rahman would surely be a goner by now.” Similarly, on March 24, 2006, AAIIL(USA) again allow the administering of capital punishment on those with regards to depictions of holy personages. These issued a Press Release regarding the apostasy trial of who desert Muslim troops, join enemy forces, and fight “Perhaps it would be helpful for the U.S. govern- cartoons were a direct attack on the Holy Prophet Mr. Abdul Rahman in Afghanistan. The Press Release against a Muslim nation … it is the ‘act’ of military ment to provide roundtrip airfare and per diem for Muhammad’s character and on the Islamic faith. has been very well received by media outlets, internet desertion during wartime coupled with aiding the AAIIL(USA) representatives to go talk to the Although a claim to “freedom of speech” is commonly discussion forums and individuals interested in world enemy that is punishable under Islamic law, not the Afghans. They probably wouldn’t change all the employed as a safeguard by those who maliciously affairs. Internet resource sites such as encyclopedia. mere change in one’s religious ‘belief’.” minds that need changing, but they might plant insult others, Fazeel S. Khan, Attorney at the law firm com and infoplease.com also provide links to the some helpful seeds.” of Blaugrund, Herbert & Martin in Dublin, Ohio and It is axiomatic that the punishment of death for Apostasy Trial Press Release, which furthers the pri- Secretary of AAIIL(USA) argues: apostasy as accepted under current sharia law finds no The Apostasy Trial Press Release has also been cited mary goal of educating non-Muslims about the true sanction in the Holy Quran. It is equally clear that the and quoted by individuals, interestingly primarily non- “Freedom of speech does not protect ‘hate speech’ principles of Islam and correcting misunderstood sources of tradition cited as the basis for this practice Muslims, defending Islam and Muslims from sweeping - the type of communications that incite anger and beliefs held by Muslims themselves. are misapplied; the incidents therein concern crimes of generalizations on discussion forums. In response to an violence against others. Furthermore, freedom of March 24, 2006 treason and treachery, not simple apostasy. article entitled “Christians still persecuted in Muslim speech does not safeguard material that is For Immediate Release AAIIL(USA) implores the Afghan authorities to apply countries” and subsequent comments by posters attack- ‘obscene’, as defined by the standards of the com- these facts to its analysis of what “contravene[s] the ing Islam for the suggested intolerant principles it advo- munity. It can certainly be argued that the Jylland- In Islam, “There is No Compulsion in Religion”: tenets and provisions of Islam”, as stipulated in Article cates, a contributor by the name of Steve, argued back: Posten cartoons are excluded from the loosely used AAIIL(USA) Comments on the Apostasy Trial in III of its Constitution, and, accordingly, declare the “But the Koran doesn’t call for the death of apostates” term ‘freedom of speech’ on both of these grounds. Afghanistan. case against Mr. Rahman is dismissed on the basis that and provided a link to the Apostasy Trial Press Release The Danish press as well as the Danish govern- freedom of religion and freedom of conscience are not Columbus, Ohio, USA: AAIIL(USA), the U.S. displayed on the U.S. Newswire website. Similarly, in ment surely had an opportunity to prevent the pub- in contravention with the principles of Islam. branch of the worldwide Islamic organization The the internet discussion forum “PakTribune.com”, while lication of these insulting and hurtful depictions Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, appeals to the Afghan discussing radical versus moderate views on apostasy, without compromising its democratic ideals”. For more information about the controversial subject government as well as Muslims internationally to of apostasy in Islam, please read Jihad in Islam, a chap- an American by the name of Michelle L. Zewe con- Clearly, Muslims around the world are justified in practically demonstrate that Islam is a religion of ter from Maulana Muhammad Ali’s world-renowned tributed to the discussion by copying the Apostasy Trial feeling offended by the Jylland-Posten publications. peace and humanity by denouncing the view that book The Religion of Islam, available online at: Press Release in full.

[27] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

14 THE LIGHT AND ISLAMIC REVIEW � JANUARY – MARCH 2006 JANUARY – MARCH 2006 � THE LIGHT AND ISLAMIC REVIEW 15 according to Islam apostasy is a crime punishable by http://www.muslim.org/bookspdf/jihadinislam.pdf. To E-mails from individuals wanting to comment on the a commodity unavailable. These autocratic rulers and death. learn about the Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, visit Apostasy Trial Press Release were also received. One their yes-men decided what are to be the laws, the max- www.muslim.org. such e-mail, in pertinent part, stated: ims of truth and the criterion for veracity. The decisions “Although a mandatory death sentence for apostasy varied as the characteristics, manners and temperament With much respect I address you, may be found in other religious scriptures, for example Contact: Samina Malik, Vice-President, AAIIL of those in authority changed. Others had no other alter- Deuteronomy 13:6-10, the Holy Quran does not pre- (USA); [email protected]; (614) 873-1030 … I am encouraged that you took this action, it is native but to carry on the nefarious activities, ordered scribe any punishment for apostasy”, says Dr. Noman In response to the Apostasy Trial Press Release, the a beginning. I am SURE that, that newswire was and prescribed by them towards the fulfillment of their Malik, Treasurer of AAIIL(USA). popular blog “OH!PINION”, an internet forum for very difficult and required MUCH courage to personal desires and motives. Every king was consid- The subject of apostasy is referred to several times in thoughtful commentary on ideas, events, people and release. It surely puts you at odds with 90% of the ered to be a superman; he even donned the garb and role the Quran (16:106, 2:117, 3:85-89, 5:54, etc.) but nei- policies shaping the world, posted an article entitled Muslims in the Middle East and will have them of a god. To sit before him was unlawful; to take the ini- ther is death nor any other punitive measure imposed. “U.S. Muslims say apostasy not capital offense”. Some publicly deriding you. It is a start and hopefully tiative in conversation with him was a sin; to complain On the contrary, the Holy Quran mandates unqualified of the comments in the article include: will be looked at and followed by other peaceful, against and criticize him was to invite death and religious freedom by declaring: “There is no compul- courageous people of the Muslim faith. If others destruction and to call him by name was disrespecting “The U.S. affiliate of a worldwide Muslim organ- sion in religion” (2:256), “The Truth is from your Lord; with courage, who are of a peaceful mind as you, and dishonoring him. In India, “Rajas” were regarded ization begs to differ with its Afghan brothers so let him who please believe, and let him who please follow your lead and begin denouncing those who incarnations of god; in Rome, the “Pope” claimed to be about death being the prescribed penalty for those disbelieve” (18:29), “We have shown him the way, he misapply, misread and out and out lie about what the heir of the son of God. who leave the faith.” may be thankful or unthankful” (76:3), etc. is contained between the covers of the Holy From the deserts of Arabia, then rose a Prophet with Dr. Mohammad Ahmad, President of AAIIL(USA) “According to AAIIL(USA), which is part of the Quran, there is hope. If the courageous do not a solemn mission to metamorphose the whole situation. explains: “Much of the confusion surrounding the pun- Lahore Ahmadiyya Movement, only people who speak up, the fanatic criminals will surely disman- He with a master stroke broke the chains of slavery and ishment for apostasy in Islam is due to a lack of careful leave Islam and end up fighting members of their tle your religion from the inside, slowly having serfdom. He, much to the surprise of the then humanity, study of Hadith reports … upon close examination, former faith deserve the death penalty. And then, public opinion rising to a crescendo of intolerance ushered in an era of independence thought and action, these reports reveal that any apostate that was killed by AAIIL(USA) maintains, the wrongdoing is trea- and outright outrage about the way those who rep- self-respect, equality of rights and liquidation of king- the Muslims was either actively fighting the Muslims or son, not apostasy.” resent the Muslim religion are behaving. ship, nobility and imperialist demeanor. He preached was an enemy in war.” “We hope the humane and well-meaning folks at It is our desire that the two press releases, as small a that the king had no special privileges over the legiti- AAIIL(USA) will be able to get through to the contribution as they are, may play a part in informing mate and natural rights of his subjects; that before God, Attorney Fazeel S. Khan, Secretary of AAIIL(USA) all were equal, whether he be a king or beggar, a master further explains: “Just as treason is a crime under the Afghan clerics and others who all but had poor the public at large of the peaceful, tolerant, rational and Abdul Rahman’s neck in a noose. If a big chunk inspiring nature of Islam. The responses received thus or a slave. He presented Islam in all its glory, originali- United States Constitution, the offender of which ‘shall ty and splendor. Through Islam, a form of government suffer death’ according to Congress, so too does Islam of the civilized world had not gotten in their way, far are very encouraging. � Rahman would surely be a goner by now.” was given a sincere trial, the like of which the world had allow the administering of capital punishment on those not experienced till then or since then. He laid down who desert Muslim troops, join enemy forces, and fight “Perhaps it would be helpful for the U.S. govern- IslamFive Hundred – a Social French Democracy Holy Quran regular human laws and democratic principles. He against a Muslim nation … it is the ‘act’ of military ment to provide roundtrip airfare and per diem for described what is meant by public rights and individual desertion during wartime coupled with aiding the Arrive in Paris, France AAIIL(USA) representatives to go talk to the By A.A. liberty and set forth their limitations. He pointed out enemy that is punishable under Islamic law, not the Afghans. They probably wouldn’t change all the Before she left for Russia to for the distribution of the Russian sins and their consequent penalties and resultant punish- mere change in one’s religious ‘belief’.” [This article was originally published in the May, 1950 minds that need changing, but they might plant Holy Quran, Mrs. Samina Malik received an e-mail from Paris, ments. He clearly enacted financial, administrative and It is axiomatic that the punishment of death for some helpful seeds.” Franceedition from of Brother The Light. Sidaty The Lo author,inquiring who about chose the Frenchto remain Holy state rules and regulations. He taught justice tempered anonymous, examines the similarities between the sys- with mercy. He denied to the few special privileges and apostasy as accepted under current sharia law finds no The Apostasy Trial Press Release has also been cited Quran. Brother Sidaty is from Senegal and is settled in Paris. Manytem Senegalese, of governance who advocatedare Muslim, by have Islam migrated fourteen to Francehundred and personal exemptions, which they had so far enjoyed. He sanction in the Holy Quran. It is equally clear that the and quoted by individuals, interestingly primarily non- haveyears a large ago community and the ideals in Paris. upon A considerablewhich modern number democrat- are now denounced autocratic rule and racial distinctions. To sources of tradition cited as the basis for this practice Muslims, defending Islam and Muslims from sweeping are misapplied; the incidents therein concern crimes of secondic g generationovernments in in France. the W estBrother are based.Sidaty Thehad readauthor the also French prove that Islam as preached by Prophet Muhammad, generalizations on discussion forums. In response to an translation of Maulana Muhammad Ali’s English translation and treason and treachery, not simple apostasy. provides examples of the practical implementation of which formed the basis of all his directives, actions, article entitled “Christians still persecuted in Muslim commentary of the Holy Quran and had been very impressed both systems and concludes that in Islam only can a likes and dislikes actually aimed at these lofty ideals, let AAIIL(USA) implores the Afghan authorities to apply countries” and subsequent comments by posters attack- by the quality of the translation and Commentary. So before true “social democracy” be found.] us compare the type of government which Islam laid these facts to its analysis of what “contravene[s] the ing Islam for the suggested intolerant principles it advo- proceeding to Russia Mrs. Samina Malik stopped over in Paris down nearly fourteen hundred years ago with the most tenets and provisions of Islam”, as stipulated in Article cates, a contributor by the name of Steve, argued back: to meetNearly Brother fourteen Sidaty andcenturies other membersago, the world of the wasMuslim passing III of its Constitution, and, accordingly, declare the modern type of government of our own days. “But the Koran doesn’t call for the death of apostates” community.through a hell of oppression, suppression of fundamen- case against Mr. Rahman is dismissed on the basis that She had a very cordial and friendly meeting with the Muslim and provided a link to the Apostasy Trial Press Release tal rights, all round slavery and inevitable serfdom. In Principles of Government to which the West aspires freedom of religion and freedom of conscience are not group at Brother Sidaty’s restaurant. She promised to donate 500 displayed on the U.S. Newswire website. Similarly, in every nook corner of the universe, the same heinous in contravention with the principles of Islam. French Holy quran which she shipped as soon as she returned The best principles of Government which the politi- the internet discussion forum “PakTribune.com”, while conditions prevailed. There was no other way out for the from Russia. Al Hamodillah ! just a few days before this magazine cal literature has produced since the French Revolution For more information about the controversial subject discussing radical versus moderate views on apostasy, wenthumble to press, subject she received but to dancethe happy to the news tunes that of the their French mighty Holy in the eighteenth century are: of apostasy in Islam, please read Jihad in Islam, a chap- an American by the name of Michelle L. Zewe con- Qurankings; had evenarrived nobles in Paris. violently enforced their whimsical ter from Maulana Muhammad Ali’s world-renowned tributed to the discussion by copying the Apostasy Trial ordinances on their dependants and servants. There 1. The state is the property of people; it is not per- Brother Sidaty Lo has requested that Mrs Samina Malik should book T were no laws worth the name; truth was nonexistent and sonal or family property. he Religion of Islam, available online at: Press Release in full. come for the official distribution of the Holy Quran.

[28] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Some responses to the distribution of the Russian Holy Quran in Central Asia

Dear Sister Samina, Dear Sister Samina, Dear Samina Bhabhi ASSALAAM ALEIKUM Assalaam aleikum wa Rahmatullah wa As Salaam wa Alaikum, WRWB We have followed your visits to Barakhatahu Words cannot express our joy and numerous Central Asian Muslim May Allah reward you for all your admiration of your tremendous success on countries and your meeting with various efforts. I hope people will both appreciate a virtually unknown journey to the said clerics, scholars and dignitaries (we call it and realise the exposure that our Jamma’t countries. your crusade in the name of Islam and our had out of all this. I would love to have It needs not only courage – but also a Jamaat ) with the greatest interest Surely a copy of the interview to enable me to great deal of determination, which Allah Allah Subhan O Tala picks those that can distribute the same here in Australia. I through HIS Mercy has showered you in propagate His work and in this case we are think there is lot of scope for us out there. abundance. convinced that you have been His choice. Allah promises in the Holy Quran that On behalf of the President and the Bearing in mind the distances travelled He will reward for the type of deeds that Fiji Jamaat, we salute you and pray to and confronting the language barrier we you have in the past and continue to carry Almighty Allah to keep you in good doubt if we could have achieved half as out. We all know that Allah does not fail health, more so, to continue the single much. in His promises. We will continue to pray handed “JIHAD” which you have been We are proud of the dedication and to Allah Almighty for your good health to carrying out for years! efforts that you have set for your self ( enable you to carry out the reason for the Your continuous INSPIRATION, and by the Grace of Allah...achieved ), formation of our Jamma’t. for the propagation of ISLAM and We earnestly pray that the Beneficent Please convey my dua and salaam to all. Ahmadiyyat, is an eye-opener and a timely Almighty strengthen your resolve and bless Allah Hafiz reminder to all of us in the MOVEMENT you with health, continued dedication and Sadar ud Deen Sahukhan to “WALK THE TALK”. strength to continue His noble work. President With all our love and dua for you and AAIIL Australia Wasalaam your family. .SONNY Dean Mehboob Raza President Dearest aunty Samina, General Secretary AAIIL Fiji Assalamoalaikum, And Mrs. Yasmeen Dean I hope you are fine. I just wanted to let you know how happy and grateful we are Dear Aunty Samina, for the amazing work done in Central Dear Sister Saminah, Asia by the US jamaat. It was extremely Assalaam u Alaikum As-Salaamu alaikum inspiring to read your emails and hear Our hearts are truly filled with joy at the It is very heart warming to learn of the about your travels and troubles. We kept significant work and successes and acceptances that thinking how courageous you are to be foundation you have laid for the you are winning as a result of your hard, away from home and family and doing movement in Central Asia. May Allah sincere and tireless efforts this pioneer work, a lady all by yourself. bless you richly and may the seed planted in the way of Dawah. May Allah continue We cannot express in words how grateful grow into a great tree. to guide, bless and reward you we are to have a mujahida like you in our My mind is filled of images of the many for those efforts. There are far to few jamaat. Alhamdolillah we feel this is a great saints and sufis of Central people with the courage and giant step forward for our jamaat. We have Asia who propagated Islam many centuries fortitude that you have demonstrated over been through hard times and the rejection ago. You are now walking this illustrious these many years in this work. we face by some Muslims is very painful. It path, and may Allah guide us all to greater Take care and return home safely is wonderful to see the Muslims of Central success in our Asia, eager and excited to have their own activities. Your brother in Islam Qurans and to learn about Islams true Dr. Abdul Salaam. teachings. May Allah bless this mission Wassalaam Speciality Promotions and your work and may Allah be with you Roger Bissessar Chicago . every step of the way. Ameen. AAIIL With lots of love Trinidad Zainib Ahamd USA

[29] December 2006 Year-end Newsletter of Ahmadiyya Anjuman Ishaat Islam Lahore USA

Respectable Auntie, Dear Sister in Islam, Dearest Samina, AA WR, What wonderful work you are doing, Assalaam-Alaikum! Alhamad-o-lillah !!! I wish I had the courage and the ability May Allah almighty open all the doors to help, but I am afraid that I am not the I pray that you have reached home safe for propagation of Islam in the world. And type who can do more than tell people of and sound after your highly successful trip may Allah give all of us courage & ability the wonders of Islam and how happy I am to Azerbaijan! to spread His religion. with it and that in Nederlands or English. May Allah bless you for all your untiring May Allah reward you generously & give I do admire all that you do, and Haji efforts and sacrifices to bring His Words to you more opportunities. keeskamp finds it a great offer also. those who need it. Please do remember in your prayers. Inshallah you will be able to keep up the Such an achievement! I can feel your Ejaz Ahamd good work for many more years, we both joy and satisfaction and I am very proud rember you in our prayers. Hopefully, of you. May you have many more great we shall meet again and you can come to experiences like this one. our home for a visit when this computer There can be no better way to serve Dear Aunty Samina, doesn`t take my time and we can really Allah than this. Our constant prayers are Asslamo Alaikum talk. I would so like to get to know you for you and Bhai. May Allah keep you I am feeling very happy to know better. both in excellent health so that you can that your visit to Azerbaijan was a very continue this great work, Ameen!! successful. I realized here in Glasgow that With love and respect how difficult it is to talk to strangers and Your Sister in Islam Love to you, Bhai and children, also people who don’t know your language, but Attiya from Khaliel. mashallah it seem that your intensions Holland and actions have the Blessing of All Allah-Hafeez! Mighty Allah Once again congratulations Your sister, on your successful visit to Central Asia Mary Khaliel and distribution of the Holy Quran. Suriname My most venerated aunty, Allah Hafiz Assalamu Alaikum Salman Ahamd May Allah shower all His blessings on you and all those who did this outstanding work. Your work and ur successful trip is Dear Chachi, not just a step its leap to achieve the great Assalam Alaikum target of Hazrat Mirza sahib.I am sure that Dear sister Samina, your untiring efforts will bear fruit and Assalamu’alaikum wr. wb. I hope and pray that Allah Almighty when the tree will be laden with the Alhamdulillah for the success you have help you in your mission. We are very sweet fruit your name will be at the top. done ini Central Asia. Congratulation. happy to learn the work done by you in We hope and pray that by the Grace Central Asia. Our small djamaat has done The work done in these areas will be an of Allah Almighty, this success will be so much in Central Asia and your sacrifice asset for us. followed by further success. Amin. is very much appreciated. On djumah May Allah help you in this jihad. this good news will be told to the djamaat Wassalamu’alaikum members. And we praying for your health Your nephew, Ahmadi. and the work you are doing to spread the Amir Aziz President AAIIL Indonesia holy quran in the corners of the world. My Father Mr. Noorsardar and my mother also sends their congratulations to you and the USA djamaat. Our Stitchting Ahamdiyya djamaat is donating one thousand Euro for the building in Kirgizstan. We are looking forward to see the photographs and the video of the trip.

Wassalaam Jerrel, Shafida and kids AAIIL Holland

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